I have dealt with Morton's Neuromas in both feet for the past couple of years. In June I received my 3rd (and last) cortizone shot between the third and fourth metatarsal on my left foot to ease the pain. Now, just 2 months later, I have a different kind of pain in that region. The sensation is like an "electric shock" that radiates up my fourth toe when I walk. This is also accompanied by a snap or click sensation in the area where I've had the shots. At the moment it is more of a nuisance that the regular agonizing pain. Could this be another symptom of the neuroma having flared up so soon or a side effect of the cortizone injection?

I think the only option left is surgery. Any advice or insight would be appreciated... I'm getting sick of hobbling around.

Yes, your description does sound like the lasting effects of a neuroma. You mentioned the cortisone injections...are those your only forms of treatment thus far? If yes, then before you jump into surgery you should explore the options of physical therapy and shoe modifications as well as orthoses. Many individuals utilize orthotics on a daily basis for neuroma symptoms. You can try a pre-fabircated pair or be casted for custom orthotics. I recommend that you read more about neuromas at our web site Foot.com

Foot.com staff member

Thank you for the reply Doctor DNK. In the past I have used both ibuprofen and padding on the bottom of my foot to help alleviate the swelling and pressure on the nerve. I have also made adjustments to the type of shoes that I wear (no heels, wide toe boxes, etc.).

In the meantime I'm been taking Advil to take the edge off, but it isn't getting any better... maybe even a little worse. Is it usual for cortizone injections to wear off in just a couple of months? Before June, my last injection had been in September of 2003.

Well yes, every injection is different. Some individuals will state that the injection helped for a few hours, days or months. Also, the type of injection used can make a difference as well. Some steroids have a longer half-life then others which will make a difference. You may want to consider a session of physical therapy to help ease the pain. Another injection may also be warranted.

Foot.com staff member